Florida men’s swimmer Kieran Smith launched himself into the water for the 400-meter freestyle finals.
Once he emerged from beneath the surface, he caught his breath and broke into form. Smith peeked to his left and right and saw that he was ahead. He cruised to victory as he never glanced in his rearview mirror to secure the win and recorded a blistering 3:44.86. He became the first Gators swimmer to qualify for the U.S. Swimming Olympic Team.
“I just had to tell myself that I belong here and I do,” Smith said, according to FloridaGators.com. “I think that 3:44.00 is pretty good for now, but I know I still need to do a bit more work and I know I can give more in the back half of the 400 free. For tomorrow, I feel confident and am ready for the 200 free.”
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It’s not surprising to see Smith secure a spot in the Tokyo Olympics this summer. The junior is a 14-time All-American and has shattered several records donning the orange and blue. He holds the American record for the best time in the 500 free with a 4:06.32 at the 2020 SEC Championships.
Day three of U.S. team trials continue Monday from Omaha, Nebraska.